UAB

Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham are hoping to learn more about a deadly fungal infection called Cryptococcus.  The germs are inhaled at a young age and are present in most people.  And most people handle it just fine.  But in some it can develop into fungal meningitis that can be fatal.  UAB professor of medicine Peter Pappas says people with compromised immune systems are the highest risk. 

New research out of the University of Alabama at Birmingham has found an HIV prevention method for women is safe.  The early phase one trial tested out new intravaginal rings carrying two anti-HIV drugs.  Women who used the rings for a month found them acceptable and one of the drugs was detected later.  Unfortunately, the other wasn’t.  But Craig Hoesley, a doctor and professor of medicine who oversaw the trial, said the results were encouraging.  He says other HIV prevention methods like condoms are useful.